ENGLISH
REFERENCE

flakes

n. countable
B1 Intermediate US //ˈfɫeɪks// UK //flˈeɪks// flakes

n. small, thin, and flat pieces of something. You often see them when it snows or when dry skin falls off.

n. small, thin, flattened pieces or layers of a substance, typically detached from a larger mass.


SIMPLE

Large white flakes of snow fell from the sky.

CONTEXTUAL

The old wooden fence was covered in dry flakes of blue paint that fell off when touched.

COMPLEX

The pastry chef worked the cold butter into the flour until it formed small flakes, ensuring the final crust would be light and airy after baking.

Synonyms
Usage

Commonly appears in the plural form when describing snow, cereal, or skin.

© 2026 English Reference